Community Reviews

Initially I became involved with Health Partners Free Clinic via an internship through a leadership program. When I was asked to fill a Public Relations position on the board, I was thrilled that I could somehow use my experience to help the non-profit create awareness and secure financial support in the community. With my background in marketing, I was unsure how significant my contribution would be to a "health" clinic. I am still getting my feet wet, however I am learning more everyday about the function of a board, how important community involvement is in the existence of a non-profit, and how every individual, no matter what their talents, can serve a role in giving back to their community through a non-profit. Considering the decline in the current economic situation and the rise of unemployment, I know Health Partner Free Clinic will need every extra hand and every extra dollar the community has to offer.

I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...

person as I came in during clinic hours on evening. I was impressed by the staff and especially the physician who donated his time with compassion and enthusiasm seldom seen even in a "for" profit situation. The majority of the clientele were reflective of the typical next-door- neighbor who happened to be under-insured or uninsured and just needed a helping hand.

If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...

establish a coordinator to further develop and organize the volunteer base. If this was a paid position, I would also require that this position be responsible for fund raising/long-term economic development.

What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...

knowing what a difference the organization has made in so many lives and knowing that the services offered are done so in the most cost-efficient, time-efficient manner.

The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...

unbelievably intelligent, compassionate and efficient.

If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...

expand and serve all that need healthcare but are unable to afford it. The organization could also secure it's long-term future which is currently a challenge.

Ways to make it better...

I could have actually provided hands on assistance to the patients.

In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...

securing funds to support long-term financial viability.

One thing I'd also say is that...

the balance of paid versus volunteer positions is difficult as most of the volunteers and board members have full time jobs and families. Time dedication is a challenge.

When was your last experience with this nonprofit?

Health Partners is the only free clinic for Miami County residents and provides great assistance for the uninsured. This clinic offers primary care for many individuals who would otherwise not get medical help. I have been serving here since June of 2007, and I have enjoyed it immensely. As a college student who will attend medical school in the fall, this clinic has been a great oppurtunity for me to learn firsthand about medical care and to also pay forward the blessings I have received in my life by helping others. The staff members are vibrant individuals who truly go out of their way to help the public. The volunteer nurses and doctors are not only helpful to the patients, but also are willing to help teach students and volunteers such as myself. Health Partners is a great place to work, serve, or come for medical care. Here you will be treated as a whole person-an individual with a unique story to tell. I will definitely be utilizing the skills and exposure I have obtained at Health Partners in my future as a medical doctor.